Rimoi Game Reserve
The Kerio Valley
Rimoi is in the semi-arid Kerio Valley which is dominated by Acacia bushland.
Termite mounds dot the landscape.
The Kerio river winds through the Valley like a brown snake. In the rainy season, the river can be deep in places and fast flowing; in the dry season it can almost disappear into the sandy river bed. Crocodiles are found along its banks.
Elephants
Rimoi is notable for its large number of elephants (in excess of 450). This is sometimes hard to believe as they are not easily observed because of the dense bushland through which they move in search of food.
Your chsnce of seeing them is greatly improved by employing a game ranger to accompany you.
Other Animals
Other large mammals are limited, but include: baboons, giraffe, zebra, waterbuck, impala and warthog.
Seeing elephants and other animals is most likely in the evening and early morning. You can do more game drives at these times by camping overnight.
The Gate to Rimoi
Rimoi Reserve is small —only 66 km2. It flanks the Kerio River on its eastern side. The entrance is 3 km from the Biretwo – Arror road (C52) and 26 km from Biretwo (at the C51 / C52 junction.
You will pay entrance fees for yourselves and cars and camping at the gate.
Rare Animals & Plants
Some of the most interesting things in Rimoi are rarely seen by the normal visitor. They include nocturnal animals such as the pangolin (below). and rare plants such as the Edithcolea grandis (right).
The Ratel (or Honey badger) is also a rare sight — usually in the late evening. It may be following a Honeyguide bird (of which there are several species) to a beehive. The Ratel’s sharp claws can tear into the hive in minutes,, exposing the larvae and honey, and the Honeyguide gets its share.
If you do see a Ratel —- beware, it can be quite a vicious animal !
Ecology field trips
The relationship between the honeyguide birds and the Ratel, is an example of what Biologists call “mutualism” —- two species working together for mutual benefit.
Many examples of animal and plant adaptations and relationships can be seen in Rimoi. A trained biologist / ecologist in your group can make a trip there much more interesting.
Let KV assist you
Kerio View can arrange your visit to Rimoi and provide food, drinks and other things you might require.
Camping
5 km from the gate is a campsite called “Crcodile Camp” —- though no crocodiles frequent its environs. Tents, water and firewood are available.
.If you would like to camp overnight, in addition to the ranger guide who will be available for hire at the reserve gate, it is advisable to go with a KV guide .
